Cuddly iPods Grow Into Bristling Business Empire For California Woman

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A resourceful female entrepreneur in Northern Calfornia turned a simple idea into a successful business. Debbie Ann, of Novato California, had the idea a year ago to make furry handmade slipcases for iPod MP3 players and went into production the same day.

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A resourceful entrepreneur in Northern Calfornia turned a simple idea into a successful business. Debbie Ann, of Novato California, had an idea a year ago to make furry handmade slipcases for iPod MP3 players and went into production the same day. Her life has not been the same since. Today she is a small home-based factory producing thousands of stylish iPod cases, called "HotRomz".

"I never dreamed I could turn this idea into a full-time business, but I did and it happened very quickly," says Debbie Ann.

Debbie Ann is living the American Dream realized thanks to Apple and their hugely successful line of ever-changing iPods. The iPod has spurred on an entire cottage industry for creative business minds. The idea literally popped in her mind one day after making one too many dog sweaters that her dog refused to wear. "What could I make that would be easy and simple and yet would really take off and be popular? As soon as I thought those words, the idea came to me and the light bulb went off over my head. I made my first iPod case that day and haven't looked back," Debbie Ann reports.

The Hotromz line of iPod cases range from functional to cute and silly. Either way, they are popular and have created a trend for unique never-before-seen cases. From "Pinkie Pod" to "Goth Elvis" to "Pink Poodle" these cases have a certain, almost unidentifiable, appeal. Sales have skyrocketed and Debbie Ann reports she hardly can keep up with demand for the "little critters". "I've had to hire assistants and streamlined a production method to ensure timely delivery of all orders," she reports.

"Unique" is the key and Debbie Ann believes the market for mass-produced accessories made in China is saturated. Increasingly, iPod owners want products that appeal to their sense of uniqueness and personality. Hotromz fits that need perfectly.

She wonders how long she will be able to work solely from her her 3000 sq ft Marin County home. Sales have dramatically increased and show no signs of slowing down. Hotromz is the success story of 2006. "I love it. Every day I get up and know that my work schedule and my life is my own. I love Apple and the iPod. I own one of each iPod model. I created an entire business out of nothing and it's a blast!".

Her Hotromz iPod cases are sold worldwide in boutiques and stores in the United Kingdom, Paris, Singapore, Japan and New York. She also sells direct on her website to a selective and growing iPod clientele who are delight in the furry creations. Made from soft fake fur, mohair, and organic natural fibers, these cases are not only fashionable but protective too, and there is a size to fit all iPod models including the new video iPod 5th Gen and the nano.